We are well in to autumn now and this week I’m noticing the leaves beginning to fall. The days are becoming shorter.

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_My husband contemplating nature at Westonbirt Arboretum._

September and October have already seen many family and friends celebrating their birthdays and it seems to have been weeks of get-togethers and celebrations.

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_In September Mum was 80, I was 53 and my sister was 50._

Autumn 

&lt;p style="text-align: justify;">With the world around us being so unsettled, it’s sometimes difficult to feel optimistic and to feel a bit helpless and concerned.&lt;/p>

&lt;p style="text-align: justify;">To navigate this, it’s always good to remember that there are also lots of good things happening in the world. The way I cope is by just keeping the corner of my eye on the news, and by putting my energy into things that I can do to bring some good to the world - to create, share or make something that benefits both myself and others.&lt;/p>

&lt;p style="text-align: justify;">This year, I’m interested to see what opportunities come up for new content, as most of my content on Carry Forth Tradition has always been spontaneous! I have a couple of little films I’m working on; one is an episode about Uncle Mick’s amazing model railway - it’s so magical and another film in memory of dear Connie - she was our faithful Airedale Terrier, hopefully John Harp Dalton will perform and Laura and Paula will be popping up too! Having the website and this channel has led to all kinds of interesting events!&lt;/p>

&lt;p style="text-align: justify;">I’ve decided to make more effort at keeping in touch with people as I am a bit of a cave dweller - and very content with my own company. Winter, for me, is a time for reflection and looking inwards, for retreating further into myself. It’s a time to rejuvenate and recharge and slow down. I’ve always been very tuned into these natural cycles, and come Spring, I feel myself energised and ready to burst out into the open as the rest of the world awakens from it’s slumber.&lt;/p>

&lt;p style="text-align: justify;">So keep smiling everyone, be kind to those around you, and may your year ahead be filled with love and new opportunities.&lt;/p>

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Apples are my family's treat by Laura. September 25, 2023